Sunday, December 26, 2010

Top schools and those vying to be competitive often go for high academic standards. And their teachers appear to have a penchant for making the life of students even harder. Some teachers keep lectures and explanations short leaving students to fill in considerable gaps in understanding the subject matter. Tests are difficult and sometimes include topics not covered by their lectures. We often hear these complaints from students. Some of course are alibis for low grades. However I did experience these anomalies when I was a student in a state college.

I would say that a tutor is even more relevant to students now a days. To stay competitive or pass difficult subjects, tutors could help a lot. Fortunately there are online tutorial programs offered by some companies mostly for a fee. They can provide an online tutor to address one's tutorial needs promptly. Certainly online tutorial services is a big help to students.

It is wise to choose leading on line tutorial companies offering comprehensive programs covering all subject matters particularly the difficult ones. Such tutorial programs should offer in addition to others, at least an online math tutor , an algebra tutor, physics tutor and chemistry tutor since most students have a hard time with these subjects. Further it would be an advantage if the same program covers subjects in different school levels. This is an advantage since siblings say in college or in high school can avail of the same tutorial package for the same or minimal additional cost.

They say there is no substitute for effective traditional tutors- friendly senior students, siblings and parents. But since they are not always available and have limited time to spare, online tutorial services is rapidly filling the gap.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Christmas is a spending season whether we like it or not. There are more than a hundred reasons not to mention the sales promotions being offered by malls, travel companies, air lines and even credit houses to entice people to spend more and part with their hard earned cash this season. For one Christmas is a season of giving and of traditional celebrations. So inevitably we have to part with our hard earned cash.With the tight economy however, we can choose to be prudent in spending. Notice how much food and drinks are wasted during Noche Buena (midnight family gathering on Christmas eve) and new year's day? Maybe we can cut back a little on the menu and volume of food and drinks. For gifts, scour malls and retail stores for discounts and inexpensive give always. Instead of spending Christmas vacation somewhere, think of staying home this time. However activities to make Christmas at home more eventful and meaningful to family and love ones have to be carefully planned and executed.

Of course if you have money to burn or good financial prospects in the coming months, then by all means spend more and be generous. As they say, its not good to be stingy during Christmas.

If you are cash strapped this time just like myself and most of my friends, then let's plan to spend less but nevertheless rewarding Christmas experience with family and loved ones.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

The recent and seemingly on-going economic slowdown of the US is a nagging concern to the rest of the world. When the world's richest and most powerful nation sneezes, the others have to hold their breath and brace for the worst. Hardest hit financially and psychologically are the ordinary citizens and even businessmen. The impact of an economy going sour is mostly felt by the common citizenry. Losing one's job or seeing friends losing theirs is a gut wrenching experience.

I do too worry what the future brings particularly to job security and ultimately to my pocket. I have bills and debts to pay. I have future must expenses. How to manage and meet all of these obligations given my limited financial resources and propensity to buy things on impulse is really daunting.

Unfortunately we have little or no influence on preventing job loses or business closures.So as they say it, better use our resources and energy on factors we have control of. I do believe we can survive better economic meltdowns armed with basic knowledge and skills on financial concepts related to budgeting, debt management and credit sourcing.There are non-profit organizations offering such help programs and services. At least I happen to read one organization offering debt consolidation course and services. Those experiencing credit cards troubles for instance may find the debt consolidation techniques and services particularly helpful. Well,if you have the tendency to incur debts or buy things impulsively, then it may be opportune to avail of credit counseling services.

Nothing beats however self restraint during difficult financial conditions. Simply put, acquire only the things you need. If buying can be posponed or deferred do it. However if self restraint is very difficult for you then better start browsing for outside help.